Research

Evidence-based strategies that guide Social Minds activities and support the social development of special needs students.

Explore key studies and findings on interventions that support social skills, communication, and emotional growth for children with special needs and other developmental differences. These summaries highlight why peer connection, creative arts, and structured group work are central to Social Minds.

Zhang, Beihua, et al. — Peer-Mediated Intervention

2022

Peer support as a pathway to stronger, more natural social interactions.

This study examined the effectiveness of Peer-Mediated Intervention (PMI) on social skills for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. PMI was shown to increase social motivation, reduce challenging or undesirable behaviors, and improve overall social skills and communication. By involving neurotypical peers as partners, students had more authentic opportunities to practice social behaviors in real-life situations.

Corbett, Blythe A., et al. — Theatre-Based Intervention

2016

Using drama, storytelling, and performance to unlock social confidence.

This theatre intervention study provided initial support for the efficacy of drama-based programs in improving communication-related symptoms in children with ASD. Through role-play, scripts, and performance, participants practiced flexible thinking, reading social cues, and responding to others — all within a fun, structured group setting.

Dean, Michelle, et al. — School Social Skills Groups

2020

Structured small groups that help students learn together at school.

This research looked at adolescents with ASD participating in social skills groups in school settings. Results showed a significant increase in joint engagement from baseline to follow-up, meaning students spent more time actively interacting with peers. The study highlights how consistent, school-based group interventions can build social confidence over time.

O'Sullivan, Marie J., et al. — Emotion Recognition & Functioning

2025

Understanding feelings as a foundation for better peer relationships.

This work explored links between emotion recognition and social outcomes in autistic children. Better recognition of facial expressions and emotions was associated with stronger cognitive empathy, richer emotional language, and improved overall social performance. These findings support activities that practice naming, acting out, and talking about emotions.

Martínez-Vérez, Victoria, et al. — Art & Music Therapy

2024

Creative arts as an inclusive space for communication and connection.

Reviewing 80 different studies, this research found that structured art and music-based interventions can enhance social, communicative, emotional, and cognitive skills in children with ASD and other disabilities. Collaborative art, group music-making, and creative expression offer safe ways to practice turn-taking, shared attention, and emotional expression.